Poitou-Charentes Property Listings and Info

A good balance

Poitou-Charentes is a very unspoilt region with virtually no industry. It has a pleasant climate - not quite as stiflingly hot as the deep south, but a lot warmer than the north.

Popular for holidays

The coastline is perfect for tourism with long sandy beaches, islands and marinas. So it should be no surprise that the Poitou-Charentes is a popular holiday destination with hotels and campsites dotted along the coast. Also on offer are vineyards, castles, Romanesque churches, and the state of the art theme park Futuroscope.

Good for food lovers

Like all areas of France, the people of the Poitou-Charentes enjoy their food with regional highlights including excellent shellfish. Away from the coast the landscape is quite flat and is used for agriculture and some wine growing. This makes it a great region for cycling.

Getting to the region

There are a couple of airports to choose from in Poitou-Charentes, these being La Rochelle and Poitiers. Both have direct flights from the UK. It is also possible to fly to Angoulême by changing in Paris. Airports outside of the region which are also good options, include Tours, Nantes, Limoges, Bergerac and Bordeaux. If you'd rather travel by land then the TGV train service will take you to Poitiers, La Rochelle or Angoulême.

Property and prices

The region is already very popular with foreign buyers and French retirees. If your budget is tight then you'll find that inland property is considerably cheaper than that near the coast. Some areas have become popular with Parisians looking for holiday homes. Prices in many areas of the Poitou-Charentes are rising fast - so if this is the area you are considering then you better not leave it too long!

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The department that gave the world Cognac is proving very popular with second home buyers. It has a very rural feel to it with agriculture dominating much of the landscape along with wild forests and high peaks in the north.

The Charente-Maritime department receives 2,300 hours of sun a year making it the sunniest spot on the Atlantic coast. Don't let the miles of fine, sandy beaches distract you from visiting the impressive bastides or the delightful Romanesque churches, of which there are more in this department than any other in France.

Deux-Sèvres is a calm and peaceful department in the Poitou-Charentes region of western France. It is home to many pastoral delights, leisurely market towns and also the watery world of the 'Marais Poitevin'.

The Vienne has attracted a great deal of interest in recent years due to the construction of its ambitious Futuroscope theme park close to the charming city of Poitiers. The department is popular with British buyers.

Adriers is a very pretty little village that lies in the department of Vienne in western France. Tranquil and rural enough to be an idyllic escape from the world, Adriers is nevertheless close to larger towns and many great attractions for fun-filled holidays. It's also easy to get to from the UK, with several nearby airports offering budget airline flights to and from the UK.

The town of Airvault, which is found in the Deux-Sèvres department in the west of France, is a delightful mediaeval town full of colour and character. It is set in the lovely rolling meadows of the region, typically glowing with the golden hues of sunflowers and corn.

The charming little village of Alloue is found in the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes. Peaceful and rural, the village has all basic amenities and several heritage sites. Its location makes it an ideal base for further exploration of the area and enjoyment of the region's many attractions.

The Cathedral city of Angouleme is the capital of the Charente department in Poitou-Charentes. It is split into two parts. The historical Old Town overlooks the Industrial Angouleme below. It was here that France recorded its first motor powered flight.

The picturesque little town of Argenton les Vallées lies in the Deux Sèvres department of Poitou-Charentes, in western France. With its mediaeval origins, Argenton les Vallées offers heritage sights in addition to all amenities and an idyllic location in the countryside.

The village of Aubeterre-sur-Dronne in the Poitou-Charentes region of western France has been classified officially as one of France's most beautiful villages. With its lovely chateau and incredible underground church, the village, which overlooks a bend in the River Dronne, really is one of those "once seen, never forgotten" places.

Aulnay is a charming market town which is found amid the sunflowers and forests of the Charente-Maritime department of western France. The village is best known for its lovely Romanesque church, and its importance to pilgrims en route to Santiago de Compostela.

The sleepy little village of Aunac is set in the beautiful countryside of the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes, in south-western France. Tranquil and picturesque, Aunac is the perfect place to get away from the hectic pace of life in the UK, yet still close enough to the many attractions of the region to keep all members of the family happy.

The lovely mediaeval village of Availles Limouzine is located on the left bank of the River Vienne, in the department of Vienne in Poitou-Charentes. Its charm and pretty, rural situation make it an idyllic spot for holidays, or even for a permanent move to this sunny part of France.

The village of Baignes Ste Radegonde lies in the west of France, in the Charente department of the Poitou-Charentes region. It is a pretty and friendly village, with a central covered market and an authentic rural ambience.

Barbezieux Saint Hilaire is an attractive market town in the Charente department of western France. Popular with British buyers, the town offers a wide a variety of property set in glorious countryside in one of France's sunniest locations.

Beauvais sur Matha is an attractive small market town that is found in the sunny department of the Charente-Maritime, in the Poitou-Charentes region of western France. The town is well placed for accessing the many attractions of the area, having good everyday amenities and close to larger towns for supermarket shopping, schools and leisure activities.

The town of Beauvoir sur Niort lies in the west of France, in the Deux-Sèvres department of Poitou-Charentes. Only an hour or so from the famous seaside resort of La Rochelle, with its airport and flights to and from the UK, the town makes a great base for anyone wishing to settle or just to holiday in this lovely and popular region of France.

The small town of Blanzac Porcheresse lies in the rural and beautiful Charente department of Poitou-Charentes in western France. With its Saturday morning market and cheerful array of small shops, services and a bar where English is spoken (a rarity in rural France!) Blanzac has a busy heart and a friendly approach to life.

The village of Bonnes lies in an idyllic location on the banks of the River Dronne, in the pretty countryside of the Charente department in western France. With its little shops and cafés, Bonnes offers everything you need, and it all comes along with a traditionally rural French atmosphere. Add to that its proximity to all the attractions of the region, and you can see Bonnes is a sure winner.

Boutiers Saint Trojan is found near the famous brandy town of Cognac, in the Charente department of central western France. The town is attractive and tranquil, yet with a vibrant community life and a reputation for a very friendly attitude.

The village of Bresdon is located in the sunny department of the Charente-Maritime, in the west of France. Picturesque and sleepy, Bresdon is an ideal escape from the busy towns and cities of the UK, set amid stunning countryside and close to the lovely Atlantic coast of France.

Bressuire is a friendly market town in western France. It is set in lovely rolling countryside, on a tributary of the River Argenton. The town has historical and architectural interest, and a castle that dates back to 1069.

Brigueuil is a very pretty, fortified village that sits in the glorious, unspoilt countryside of the popular Charente department. Part of Poitou-Charentes in western France, the department has much to offer, with many top attractions and a wealth of heritage.

Brioux sur Boutonne is a lively market town which lies in the lovely surroundings of the Deux-Sèvres department of Poitou-Charentes. Straddling the River Boutonne, the town offers all amenities along with a charming and authentic atmosphere. This is never more prevalent than on market days when the whole town seems to gain a new energy as the colourful stalls spring up along its streets and townsfolk mingle with visitors, keen to grab the freshest and best of the local produce.

Brossac is a picturesque village that lies in southern Charente, just a hop across the border from the Dordogne. Set on a hilltop with commanding views, Brossac has history, heritage and a dynamic modern life, all wrapped up in a traditional atmosphere. It's surrounded by a lovely countryside of woodlands, lakes and rivers, and offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities and holiday fun.

Cellefrouin is a pretty little Charantaise village that is located in the department of Charente, in the west of France. The village has plenty of history and some interesting heritage to see. Cellefrouin has a lovely setting, on the River Son, and is ideally placed for exploring Poitou-Charentes and also neighbouring Haute-Vienne and the Dordogne.

The town of Celles sur Belle is not actually classified as a town, or even as a village, which, with a population of only 3,480, one might expect. Instead it is officially known as a "petite cité de caractère". This title gives an idea of the attractions of this little town, which lies on the lovely River Belle in the Deux-Sèvres department of western France.

Cerizay, a small town lying in the Deux-Sèvres department of western France, is a town which has had to rebuild its houses and its industries after its sufferings during the second world war. The town folk were suspected of harbouring many resistance workers, and German bombardment followed, leaving the little town devastated. Today, however, the indomitable spirit of its people has made Cerizay into a small centre of industry, and rebuilt the town into an attractive market town that offers a great quality of life in this pretty area of rural France.

Chabanais is a lovely market town which lies in the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes, in the west of France. A small but bustling town, offering a good range of amenities, Chabanais is set in picturesque surroundings, and is bisected by the River Vienne.

Chalais is a lovely old Charantaise market town, typical of the region. The busiest day of the week is Monday, when the market sets up in the town and traffic is diverted. This historic town, although essentially rural, offers a good selection of shops, cafés and services, and forms a good base for exploring South West France.

Champagne Mouton is an attractive market town set in the pretty countryside of the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes in western France. With a twice weekly market and a collection of shops, the little town is well equipped and yet retains a peaceful, rural air.

Champdeniers Saint Denis is a small village, or hamlet, that is found in the rural department of the Deux-Sèvres, in the west of France. Sleepy and seemingly untouched by modern life, Champdeniers Saint Denis is the ideal place to lose yourself in the beauty and peace of "la France profonde".

Charmé is a very pretty and traditional little village which is found in the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes in the west of France. Its many old buildings create a lovely ambience, and the rural and picturesque surroundings complete the picture, making the village live up to its name. It is, indeed, a charming place.

Charras is a typically Charentaise village set amid the verdant forests and rolling countryside of the Charente department in western France. Traditional and calm, the village is an ideal retreat from the bustle of everyday life in the UK, yet offering easy access to the attractions that make Poitou-Charentes such a popular destination.

Charroux is a beautiful market town that lies in the Vienne countryside in Poitou-Charentes in the west of France. Once listed as one of France's most beautiful towns, Charroux has many lovely features in addition to a lively modern life.

Chasseneuil sur Bonnieure is a typically Charentaise market town in the popular region of Poitou-Charentes. Offering excellent amenities, the town has some lovely, historic buildings and plenty of colourful character, and is conveniently close to all the major attractions of the area.

The village of Chassenon is set in the pretty countryside of the Charente department of western France. Close to many attractions, the village is home to an important historical site. Its Roman baths are considered one of the Charente's most significant archaeological sites.

Chassiecq is a small village which sits sleepily in the sunny and beautiful department of the Charente, in the region of Poitou-Charentes in western France. Surrounded by lovely rural landscapes of sunflowers and waving corn, Chassiecq is also well placed for accessing the wealth of attractions for which this area is known.

Châteauneuf sur Charente is a lovely old market town that lies beside the Charente River in the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes. It is a well appointed town with excellent facilities and well situated for further exploration of the southern Poitou-Charentes region as well as the Dordogne.

The town of Châtellerault, which lies in the west of France in the region of Poitou-Charentes, was once an important centre for the manufacture of armaments for the French government. The town is situated on the banks of the Vienne River, and is set in some of the loveliest of France's landscapes in the Vienne department.

The village of Chaunay is found in the pretty countryside of the Vienne department in Poitou-Charentes, in western France. Set against a lovely backdrop of peaceful fields, woodlands and sunflowers, Chaunay is easily reached from the UK and its location makes it a great base for enjoying all the major attractions of this region.

The market town of Chauvigny lies in the east of the Poitou-Charentes region, in the department of the Vienne. Combining the peaceful and unspoiled character of a rural market town with the proximity to the major city of Poitiers, Chauvigny seems set to offer the best of both worlds to property seekers who want a little piece of La France Profond, yet don't want to bury themselves too deeply in the back of beyond!

The quaint little market town of Chef-Boutonne lies in the peaceful and rural department of the Deux-Sèvres in western France. The Deux-Sèvres is considered to be one of France's most unspoiled departments, and certainly it has an abundance of lovely gentle landscapes with sunflowers, woodlands and pretty rivers.

Chevanceaux is a village that is located in the west of France, in the region known as the Charente-Maritime, which runs alongside the Atlantic coast in Poitou-Charentes. The village is situated a little way inland, not far from the popular and lively town of Jonzac in the beautiful countryside of the Charente-Maritime. Here there are rolling acres of Cognac vineyards and golden sunflowers in abundance, and all just a stone's throw from the ocean.

The village of Chiché lies in the idyllic surroundings of the Deux-Sèvres in western France. Tranquil and traditional, Chiché is the perfect place to escape to the French countryside. It's accessible from the UK, close to many top attractions and best of all, offers incredible value for money when it comes to property.

The village of Chizé is set on the banks of the River Boutonne beside a stunning forest in the lush countryside of the Deux-Sèvres department of western France. Calm and rural in character, Chizé is nonetheless within easy reach of many of the region's main attractions and is easy to get to from the UK by road, air or rail.

The pretty market town of Civray, set on the banks of the River Charente in the Vienne department of Poitou-Charentes, makes an excellent base for further exploration of this lovely area. Tranquil yet providing all everyday requirements, Civray, with its twice weekly markets and antiques fairs, is a delight waiting to be discovered.

Clérac is a lovely little village that has the good fortune to be placed in one of France's sunniest and most popular locations, the Charente-Maritime. Clérac has a chateau, a museum, and a Roman church, but is also very much a residential community, and accepts incomers and visitors with a traditional Charentaise welcome.

Couhé, which lies in the Vienne department of Poitou-Charentes in western France, is a village whose historical importance and mediaeval heritage belies its modest size. The village is full of interest and charm and is well equipped with shops and services. The setting, composed of lovely, unspoilt countryside with sunflowers and woodlands is also quite delightful.

Coulon is a town that lies on the River Sèvre, in the Deux-Sèvres department of western France. As fascinating in its own way as Amsterdam or Venice, the town is found in the heart of the Marais Poitevin, a unique area of canals, rivers, harbours and boats. That's the good news. The even better news is that it is still one of France's cheapest regions for property purchase... so if you dream of a watery home in a beautiful and rural part of France, here it is!

The market town of Coulonges-sur-l'Autize lies in the Niortaise area of the Deux-Sèvres department in western France. The town sits on the edge of the Marais Poitévin, the network of canals and inland waterways frequently known as the Green Venice of France.

Courcôme is a delightful little village set in the popular Charente department of western France. With roots going back to 970, the village has plenty of history and heritage. It's also close to many great tourist attractions and offers endless possibilities for outdoor activities and the discovery of local culture.

Couture is a tiny country village that's found in the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes, in the west of France. With just 161 inhabitants, it is a haven of tranquillity and ideal for anyone who wants to escape the noise and stress of life in modern Britain. It is, nevertheless, within easy reach of Ruffec, which has a railway station linking to Poitiers and to great shops and services.

The town of Cozes, which lies on the Gironde estuary in the Charente-Maritime department of western France, is an historic market town set amidst peaceful fields of sunflowers and wheat. Close to all the seaside and sporting attractions of Royan, the town has an olde worlde charm, yet offers all the amenities required for a very comfortable lifestyle.

The little village of Empuré lies in the Charente department of the lovely region of Poitou-Charentes. The village is typically Charentaise, with mellow stone houses and red tiled roofs, and is surrounded by beautiful countryside.

Exideuil is a peaceful rural village in the unspoilt surroundings of the Charente department in the region of Poitou-Charentes, in the west of France. With its delightful setting on the River Vienne and its location near to many of the region's top attractions, Exideuil is a perfect spot for that getaway bolthole in the peace of the French countryside.

The town of Gémozac lies in the Charente-Maritime department in the west of France, close to the Atlantic coast. Popular with residents and holiday makers alike, Gémozac benefits from the micro climate caused by the movement of air from the Gulf Stream, giving the area its long sun-filled summers and pleasant, mild winters.

The little village of Genac is set in some of the prettiest countryside of the Poitou-Charentes region of western France. Peaceful and rural, Genac is nevertheless within easy reach of many of the region's favourite attractions.

The little town of Gençay lies in the west of France, in the attractive rural environment of the Vienne department. It is little known to British house hunters yet is well worth consideration. With many reasonably priced properties in the area, good transport links to the UK (and indeed, to other parts of France), and with a wonderfully unspoiled and very "French" environment, Gençay could just be the ideal base for a new life or blissful holidays.

Genouillé is a small village in the rural surroundings of the Vienne department of Poitou-Charentes, in western France. Sleepy and picturesque, Genouillé is nevertheless within a few minutes drive of the vibrant market town of Civray, where all shops and services can be found.

The Ile de Re is an island off the western coast of France, close to La Rochelle. Just 30km long, and 5 wide, the island is popular with tourists, both home grown French and holiday makers from the UK and elsewhere. The lovely character of the island is preserved by strict building regulations which prevent high-rise construction and which govern the colour schemes of the houses here.

Jarnac is a small town in the Charente department of western France, which holds a big reputation in the world of cognac. The town is the home of the great Courvoisier company, and this greatly enhances the town's attraction for tourists and hence the economy. Jarnac is an attractive town in its own right, however, so even if you don't drink cognac, don't pass by without a second glance!

Jonzac is a small town located in the popular Charente-Maritime department of western France. Known for its beautiful chateau, mediaeval quarter, its state of the art water centre and its thermal springs, the town is both interesting and appealing.

L'Absie is an attractive small town that is found in the lush countryside of the Deux-Sèvres department of Poitou-Charentes, in the west of France. L'Absie is well equipped with shops and services, yet manages to retain a calm, rural air making it an ideal holiday base for families. It is also well situated for further exploration and for visiting many of the region's great attractions.

The lively little town of L'Isle Jourdain is found in the rural Vienne department of Poitou-Charentes in western France. Its most remarkable feature is the huge viaduct that crosses the River Vienne. This dominates the town and makes a perfect spot for a first and lasting impression of L'Isle Jourdain.

The rolling countryside of the Deux-Sèvres department in the region of Poitou-Charentes in western France, is the setting for the village of La Chapelle Thireuil. Peaceful and pretty, the village enjoys a sunny climate and a gentle way of life, and lies close to many of this popular region's best attractions.

La Couronne is a market town that is located just to the south of the city of Angoulême in western France. Almost a suburb of Angoulême, it nevertheless offers its own distinctive features and makes a great base for discovering the many delights of the area. The town lies in the pretty Charente department, with its rolling countryside and its connections to the Cognac brandy industry, both of which make it doubly desirable!

The small market town of La Mothe Saint Héray is found in the Deux Sèvres department of the Poitou-Charentes region of western France. La Mothe Saint Héray is a pretty little town, with a lively heart, a weekly market and a variety of pleasures, both ancient and modern, to discover.

La Roche Posay is a pretty spa village that is found in the rural department of the Vienne, in north-eastern Poitou-Charentes. Notable for its thermal waters, the village is a centre for thermal and relaxation therapies. It lies in lovely unspoiled countryside, yet near to all the major attractions of the region.

The pretty town of La Rochefoucauld in the Charente, sits on the banks of the Tardoire River, and possesses what must be one of the very finest chateaux in France. The first sight of the Chateau La Rochefoucauld is guaranteed to take your breath away, as with its beautiful towers and dominant position looking down onto the river, it is the embodiment of a fairytale French chateau.

The hip, chic and cultured town of La Rochelle is located on Poitou-Charentes' Atlantic coast and benefits from the warm gulf breeze. The Ile de Re is linked to the mainland here by a long suspension bridge. The town was elevated to prosperity after it began trading with the New World and Africa - its history has been both turbulent and intriguing.

La Trimouille is a small town that is found straddling the River Benaize in the Vienne department of western France. It's a pretty little town, typically Charantaise, and has an unusual attraction, "L'Isle aux Serpents" or Snake Island.

Lathus Saint Rémy is a picturesque village which is found beside the rushing waters of the River Gartempe, in the Vienne department of Poitou-Charentes region in western France. Set in green and beautiful countryside, the village is an ideal destination for those seeking a rural base for enjoying outdoor pursuits and water sports.

The attractive market town of Lezay can be found in the lush countryside of the Deux-Sèvres department of the Poitou-Charentes region in the west of France. Lezay is a lively town, offering all amenities and set within reach of many of the best attractions of the region.

Loudun, in the Vienne department of sunny Poitou-Charentes, is an attractive town of old streets, buildings and monuments, yet with a thriving and vibrant spirit. The weekly market, held in the town every Monday, is testament to this and is as colourful and fully stocked a market as you are likely to find anywhere in the region.

The pretty little market town of Loulay is found in the Charente-Maritime department of western France. Within easy reach of the beaches of the Atlantic coast and other attractions of the region, Loulay is an idyllic holiday location.

Lussac les Châteaux is found in the Poitou-Charentes region of western France, in the lovely rural department of the Vienne. It is renowned for several somewhat diverse reasons, ranging from caves and grottos and other archaeological sites, to water mills and excellent restaurants!

The town of Mansle, which lies in the sleepy, rural Charente in western France, is a pretty little market town which is popular with tourists. It has an appealing character, a twice weekly market and is surrounded by beautiful countryside.

Marcillac Lanville is a small village that is located in the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes. The village lies amid the pretty rural landscapes so typical of western France, with fields of golden sunflowers in early summer and burnished corn when the sun hits full strength. Its greatest landmark is an ancient priory.

The village of Massais is situated in the north of the Deux-Sèvres department, in Poitou-Charentes. Lying not too far from the Vendée border with the Deux-Sèvres, the village is ideally placed for those wishing to enjoy easy access to the popular resorts of the Vendée coast, yet who also wish to benefit from the lower property prices and peaceful lifestyle of the Deux-Sèvres. Pretty and tranquil, Massais is surrounded by fields of corn and sunflowers, and green pastures with sleepy-eyed cows.

Massignac is a small village set amidst the glorious lakes and wooded countryside of the Charente department in western France. In spite of its diminutive size, Massignac has good amenities with basic shops. Its location also allows easy access to many of the best attractions of the region.

The little town of Matha, which lies in western France close to the Atlantic coast of the Charente-Maritime department, is a bustling yet traditional market town. Matha offers all amenities and is set amidst the vineyards and sunflowers which characterise the region.

The town of Mauzé sur le Mignon lies in the west of France, in the Deux-Sèvres department of Poitou-Charentes. It is an attractive and lively country town, where the past and the present fuse seamlessly in a most appealing combination, and where newcomers are welcomed into a thriving community.

Melle, in western France, is a pretty little town set in the beautiful wooded countryside of the Deux-Sèvres. With its attractive old streets and houses, and a picturesque and colourful Friday market, Melle is a delightful piece of rural France.

With its traditional houses with red pan-tiled roofs, its setting on the banks of the River Sèvres and its green backdrop of trees and fields, Ménigoute is just delightful. This typically Charantaise village lies conveniently close to the region's best attractions, and is easy to access from the UK.

Mirambeau is a pretty market town in the Charente-Maritime, just a short drive from France's lovely Gironde estuary. Surrounded by fields of sunflowers and glossy vineyards, Mirambeau is a thriving little town which offers all daily needs and the delights of its excellent Saturday morning market too.

Moncoutant is a lively and attractive town set in the pretty surroundings of the rural Deux-Sèvres in western France. With its Saturday morning market, fishing centre and picturesque setting on the River Sèvres, Moncoutant is a great place to find that second or even permanent new home in the French countryside.

Montbron is a very pretty market town that is found in the Charente department of south-western France. It lies in the area sometimes referred to as the Swiss Charente, as the countryside and way of life is reminiscent of that of parts of Switzerland. The region is also said to resemble Tuscany... so it is easy to see that Montbron has a glorious setting!

The little village of Montemboeuf lies in the Charente department of the region of Poitou-Charentes in the south-west of France. The village is surrounded by the typically Charentaise landscapes of sunflowers, forests and meadows, and is within reach of the main attractions of the region. Agricultural and peaceful, Montemboeuf has some historic buildings and also a range of small shops and services.

Montendre is an attractive market town situated in the heart of the Charente-Maritime department of western France. Lying a short way inland from the Atlantic coast, Montendre benefits from the micro climate created by the Gulf stream which gives the area its delightfully warm and sunny weather. The town is surrounded by beautiful pine forests and flat landscapes, peppered with vineyards growing the grapes used to make the local drink, pineau, a blend of wine and cognac.

Montguyon is an attractive little market town which is found in the Charente-Maritime department close to France's Atlantic coast. An historic village dating back to mediaeval times, Montguyon still has the ruins of its mediaeval castle, and these attract many visitors each summer.

Montlieu la Garde is a small town that is located in the west of France, in the sunshine department of the Charente-Maritime. Lying in a beautiful area of forests and lakes, yet close enough to major towns and to the Atlantic Ocean to keep life both easy and sweet, Montlieu la Garde is a perfect place to escape from the stresses and strains of a modern world.

Montmoreau Saint Cybard is a town that lies in the Charente department of western France in the region of Poitou-Charentes. The town is built on the Mont des Maures, a limestone region with lots of fertile green fields and dense, dark woodland. There is an old castle above the town which acts as a distinctive landmark.

Located not far from the Vienne river, Montmorillon is a town with a relaxed pace of life. It has benefited from the creation of Futuroscope, a futuristic theme park which has attracted both tourists and high-tech industry.

Mortagne sur Gironde is a gloriously picturesque river port, close to the beaches and resorts of the Gironde Estuary in the Charente-Maritime. With a colourful port, great shops and restaurants, a lively, holiday atmosphere and all the fun of the seaside on the doorstep, this little market town is a dream destination, whether you want to take a relaxing holiday or settle in a beautiful part of France for a new life in the sun.

Nanteuil en Vallée is a lovely mediaeval town found in the green and pretty countryside of the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes, in western France. With a good range of local shops and services in addition to its heritage buildings and picturesque setting, Nanteuil en Vallée is one of the area's best loved towns.

Néré is a pretty little town that's found among the woodlands, vineyards and sunflowers of the Charente-Maritime department in western Poitou-Charentes. Tranquil yet with all amenities, Néré is ideally located for enjoying the best of the region, including the resorts of France's Atlantic coast.

Neuville de Poitou is an attractive small town that lies in the Vienne department of western France, in the Poitou-Charentes region. The town is reputed to host one of the best markets in the region, as well as being a lively centre for wines, beers, gourmet food products and a multitude of sports. The town is set amid the green and beautiful Vienne countryside, where in early summer all you can see are miles upon miles of giant sunflowers raising their golden faces to greet the hot sun.

The town of Niort, in western France, is the capital town of its department, the Deux-Sèvres. Niort, with its imposing Donjon castle, lies close to the beautiful Marais Poitévin waterways, and makes an attractive and interesting base from which to explore this beautiful area.

The village of Paizay Naudouin Embourie lies in the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes in western France. Despite its long name (a result of the combining of two villages), it's a small, rural village. Yet, it makes a perfect holiday base in the region, as it's within easy reach of many attractions and is set in lovely countryside.

If you were a pilgrim making your way to Compostela then Parthenay would have been one of the more picturesque stopovers along the way. The town nestles on the banks of the Thouet River and contains many historical gems. The town council has invested considerable effort into renovating the medieval buildings.

The mediaeval town of Pons, located in western France in the Charente-Maritime department, is an interesting and attractive town which used to play an important role in the welfare of the pilgrims travelling to Compostela. The town has an imposing ancient "donjon" (keep) which offers superb, panoramic views of the beautiful green countryside which surrounds the town.

Pressignac (not to be confused with Pressignac-Vicq in the Dordogne) is a small village which is found in the rolling green countryside of the Charente department in the west of France. This pretty village is tranquil and rural, and benefits from its location close to a lovely leisure lake.

Puyréaux is a pretty little village which is found in the beautiful and vibrant department of the Charente, in western France. Life in Puyréaux is tranquil and slow paced, yet here you can also enjoy easy access to some of the top tourist attractions in western France.

The historic town of Rochefort lies in the west of France, in the region known as Poitou-Charentes. It is found just inland from the Atlantic Ocean, and is famous for having been an important naval base for many years.

Roumazières Loubert is a small but dynamic town that is found in the Charente department of the Poitou-Charentes region of western France. The town is well equipped with all amenities and services, and is ideally located for easy access to the many attractions not just of the Charente, but also of the neighbouring Atlantic coastal department of Charente-Maritime, the dramatic Dordogne and the Limousin Lakelands.

Royan is probably the holiday capital of the Gironde region of western France. With its choice of long, golden sandy beaches and secluded bays, Royan offers superb water sports facilities as well as a lively and friendly atmosphere. The town is also architecturally interesting as it has been almost completely rebuilt in a Modernist style after being decimated during the second world war.

The vibrant market town of Ruffec lies in the popular region of Poitou-Charentes in western France. Conveniently close to Poitiers for air travel from the UK, Ruffec also has its own well connected railway station. The town has got everything you could hope for, including all shops, a superb market, restaurants, as well as access to all manner of activities and entertainment.

The town of Saint Aigulin is located in western France, in the south of the Charente-Maritime department, right on the border with the Dordogne. Saint Aigulin is a beautiful and economically thriving town, set amidst the lovely landscapes of vineyards, forests and rivers that have sustained the area for centuries.

The village of Saint Angeau is located in the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes in the west of France. Calm and attractive, Saint Angeau lies in a lovely rural setting not far from the market town of Ruffec, which has a railway station linking to Poitiers, for easy access to the main attractions of the region.

Saint Benoît is a small and pretty town that is located in the rural Vienne department of the Poitou-Charentes region of western central France. The village sits just to the south of the lovely city of Poitiers, and although rural, it has access to a great variety of things to do, and makes a wonderful location for anyone wanting a base in this delightful part of France.

On the north bank of the Gironde Estuary, amid a countryside of vineyards and sunflowers, lies the picturesque village of Saint Bonnet sur Gironde. Just half an hour from the glorious beaches and lively coastal resorts that attract so many to this sunny part of south-west France, Saint Bonnet sur Gironde is the perfect location for a holiday home.

Saint Claud is a thriving small town in the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes in western France. With plenty of small shops and local services, Saint Claud is also near to all the region's attractions and so makes a great base for holidays.

The town of Saint Genis de Saintonge is located in the west of France, in the sunshine department of the Charente-Maritime. An attractive town with all the basic amenities, St Genis lies in the pretty landscapes so typical of this region, with fields of sunflowers and tidy vineyards all around. It is also ideally located for accessing the beautiful Atlantic coast and the fascinating Gironde estuary.

The town of St-Jean-d'Angély, in the Charente-Maritime department in western France, is a very attractive town with a well preserved historic centre. It lies on the pilgrim trail to Compostela, and is set in a delightful landscape, with sunflowers (in season) stretching as far as the eye can see.

The town of Saint Loup Lamairé is found in the Deux-Sèvres department of Poitou-Charentes, in the west of France. Saint Loup is a merger of two villages, Lamairé and Saint Loup sur Thouet, resulting in a commune of around 1,000 inhabitants. Picturesque and historic, with a wealth of heritage both natural and monumental, the commune sits in peaceful, rural countryside and is an idyllic destination for walkers and fans of the outdoor life.

The little town of St-Maixent-L'École is situated in the Deux-Sèvres department of western France. An attractive and ancient town, it relies mainly on agriculture for its economy, and hosts an excellent Farmer's Market which attracts buyers from far and wide.

The charming village of Saint Maurice des Lions lies in the peaceful surroundings of the Charente countryside in western France. Taking its name from three granite lions that once decorated the village, Saint Maurice des Lions is sleepy and traditional, yet just 30 minutes from Limoges airport.

Saint Savin is a small town which is found in a picturesque location on the left bank of the Gartempe River in the Vienne department of Poitou-Charentes in western France. The town is famed for its wonderful Romanesque abbey, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which attracts visitors from all over the world.

The lovely market town of Saint Savinien occupies a gorgeous location in the Charente-Maritime department of western France. Set on the Charente River and within easy reach of the Atlantic coast, Saint Savinien is as pretty as a picture on a chocolate box. It's no wonder artists and photographers flock to the town to capture unforgettable images.

The town of Saintes, lying on the banks of the River Charente in the Charente-Maritime in western France, is a prosperous and lively place which has a very attractive historic centre. The town has many interesting Roman remains, and indeed it was a very important economic force in Gallo Roman times.

The small town of Saulgé lies close to Montmorillon, in the Vienne department of Poitou-Charentes in western France. Calm and pretty, Saulgé is set in idyllic countryside and makes a perfect base for activity holidays and for exploring this historic region.

Sauzé Vaussais (or Sauze Vaussais) lies in western France, and is an attractive old village with excellent twice weekly markets. Set in the lovely rolling countryside of the Deux-Sèvres, Sauzé Vaussais offers excellent facilities and a good standard of living for ex-patriots and locals alike, yet remains within a largely unspoiled and traditionally rural area of France.

The pretty town of Secondigny lies in the Deux-Sèvres department of western France. Situated between the lovely rolling countryside of the Gatines (with the predominating apple orchards) and the Secondigny Forest, this is a peaceful town which benefits from its beautiful environment.

The lively market town of Surgères, in the Charente-Maritime in western France is both pretty and historic. Surgères, with its thrice weekly markets and mediaeval walls, benefits from the micro climate that blesses much of the area, and is said to be situated in the sunniest region in France after the Côte d'Azur.

The market town of Thouars, located in the Poitou-Charentes region of western France, is a large and historic town with some interesting historical buildings and remains. Thouars is famed particularly for its chateau, Le Château de la Trémoille, which is both interesting and lovely, but there are many more reasons besides which make Thouars a place worth visiting.

The village of Tusson sits in the north-west of the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes, in western France. With its mediaeval origins, the village is historic and interesting, and is also home to some lovely Renaissance architecture. The Charantaise countryside surrounding the village is peaceful and beautiful, with early summer seeing vast fields of giant sunflowers, and later summer bringing ripening corn.

Valence is a small, rural village that's found in the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes in western France. The village is tiny, with just 233 inhabitants, but it lies within easy reach of all the acclaimed attractions of this vibrant region.

Verteuil sur Charente is a beautiful and historic village in a stunning location. Lying on the banks of the lovely River Charente, in the Charente department of Poitou-Charentes in western France, the village has a gorgeous chateau as well as a vibrant community life.

Villebois Lavalette is a charming fortified market town that sits on a hill in the Charente department of western France. The lovely walled town gazes out over rolling, wooded countryside, and offers a perfect blend of rural peace and good amenities.

The little village of Villefagnan is found amongst the sunflower fields and forests of the lovely Charente department in western France. Although small and rural in character, Villefagnan has good local amenities and is ideally located for exploring the whole of the Poitou-Charentes region.

The market town of Vouillé is found in the Vienne department of the Poitou-Charentes region of western France. The town has a long and interesting history, having been the site of the famous Battle of Vouillé in 507AD. Vouillé is set in a gentle, green countryside packed with character villages. It is also within easy reach of the capital city of Poitiers.

Voulême is a small village which lies amid the rural landscapes of the Vienne department of western France, in the region of Poitou-Charentes. Sitting beside the River Charente, the village is both pretty and peaceful, and ideally located to be a base for anyone wanting to discover more of this lovely part of France.

Set amid the rolling wooded countryside of the Charente department in western France, the little village of Vouzan is the perfect retreat from a hectic, urban lifestyle. Sleepy and pretty as a picture, Vouzan (both the old village and its more modern counterpart), is utterly rural and peaceful, yet close to the vibrant city of Angoulême and many great attractions.

Poitou-Charentes AT A GLANCE

WHERE IS Poitou-Charentes?

Poitou-Charentes is on the west coast of France. For many it has the perfect balance of a pleasant climate and not being too far from the UK.